Many thanks to Kathy for her excellent Beta work and to my writing group.
Adian
Ch 52
Antar – Khivar’s War Room
Khivar is surrounded by his supporters: Admiral Patal, Lords Akard, Pekod, Tokala, Jadenspear, Dearborne, and Brigadier General Southmore with Captain Massico. They watch in stunned amazement as War Lord Rath’s forces retreat. Admiral Patal asks his king, “Sire, do you wish us to pursue?”
Flushed with triumph, Khivar ignores Patal. He faces his counselors and says, “Everyone said that I couldn’t do it…that I could not beat Rath in a fair fight. This victory must be celebrated. Chamberlain! Chamberlain!”
Scurrying in, the Chamberlain bows and says, “Yes, Sire?”
“I want to plan a very special victory celebration. We are going to have a wedding. I need for you to find suitable attire for young Prince Amergin. Contact Lady Ophira. Tell her Thalia needs to be ready for noon tomorrow. Lady Jade will be responsible for coordinating the feast and decorations. Notify the High Priest. He needs to send out an announcement tonight.”
Lord Pekod protests, “Sire, we don’t have time for a wedding. Half the planet is in rebellion against you.”
Grinning evilly, Khivar replies, “I know. The marriage of Thalia to one of the royal blood line will pacify many.”
Lord Pekod asks, “And the rest of the rebels?”
In a voice devoid of emotion Khivar replies, “I will obliterate them.”
A comely, older woman walks up to Khivar, intertwining their fingers. Kathana, smirking at Lady Jade, asks, “And when are you going to announce our marriage?”
Plastering a smile on his face, he answers, “My Queen, tonight you shall stand beside me as I announce to all the worlds the joyous news.”
Lord Jadenspear has kept his face carefully neutral. At Khivar’s insistence, he was a witness to the clandestine midnight ceremony. Below the table his hands clench into fists as he witnesses his daughter’s painful humiliation. He watches the color flee her face. Uncomprehending she looks at Khivar. He can see the exact second realization dawns and his daughter’s heart breaks. Ignoring all royal protocol, Jade rushes out of the room. He longs to go after her but right now both their lives depend on his performance in the next few minutes.
Antar – The Granolith Chamber
Khivar surveys the scene before him with satisfaction. His daughter looks beautiful, regal in her indigo velvet wedding gown. A majority of the Antarian nobility had at least sent representatives to witness Thalia’s marriage to Amergin. The only mar on the day is the overwhelming silence of the Granolith. He had gambled everything to obtain control of its power. This would be the last toss of the dice. He would either control the Granolith through Amergin’s child or destroy it.
The High Priest steps onto the dais signaling the beginning of the ceremony. The High Priest begins, “We have gathered here in the presence of the Granolith to witness the bonding of these two souls. What say you Amergin of the Blood Royal?”
Reverently he cradles Thalia’s hands in his. Heart in his throat he can barely speak. “I do…I do swear and promise before the Granolith and these assembled witnesses that I shall love and cherish you to the end of my days. I promise that I will be faithful to you, that I will cleave to you and no other. I say to you as I take you for my wife, all that I am able to provide, I shall provide for you. As the Granolith as my witness, I do pray that you will accept me as I am, that you will guide me in gentleness and love. To you I promise my very life, my body, and my soul in good times and bad.” (1)
The High Priest turns to Thalia. “What say you Thalia of Anholt?”
Beaming with joy she looks up into Amergin’s eyes. “My beloved, I offer you my hand and pray that the Granolith will bless this union of souls. I do vow by all that I hold sacred to love you as the other half of my soul, to walk beside you in life with the blessings of the Granolith. To you I promise my fidelity and my trust, my laughter and my tears. I promise you my strength, my comfort, and my warmth. I shall love you for all my days in honesty and joy.” (1)
Holding the rings in his right hand the High Priest lays his left over their entwined ones. Their radiant expressions belie the gravity of their situation. He hesitates to pronounce their joy and their doom. “Above you are the stars, below you are the stones. As time does pass remember …like a star your love should be constant. Like a stone your love should be firm. Be close, yet not too close. Possess one another, yet be understanding. Have patience with each with the other for storms will come, but they will go quickly. Be free in affection and warmth. The Sisters have chosen a difficult path for you to tread. Have no fear, and let not the ways or words of the unenlightened give you unease.” (2)
The High Priest gives each of them a ring. “These rings are a symbol to yourselves and the world of the commitment you have made to each other and the Granolith. You may now put on the rings.”
As Thalia and Amergin place the rings on each other, the High Priest announces, “I give you the Crown Princess Thalia and her husband Prince Amergin.”
The crowd cheers wildly for the blushing pair until Khivar shoves his way between them. With false joviality Khivar addresses the assembled nobles and the millions watching at home. “I have declared today a national holiday in celebration of the uniting of two warring factions through the peaceful union of the Royal House of Anholt and the Royal House of Antar. It is my great hope that this union will bring lasting peace to our realm. I…”
A deafening boom of thunder stops Khivar. He watches the audiences’ faces move from stunned disbelief to outright fear. He slowly turns around to face whatever has frightened the audience. The Granolith has disappeared. Khivar’s face blooms red with rage he turns on Amergin. “You! You did this!”
Unwisely Amergin quips, “If I had that much power don’t you think I’d have escaped by now?”
Enraged Khivar goes for Amergin’s throat. He begins squeezing the life out of his new son. In vain Amergin tries to pry Khivar’s fingers off. Thalia grabs Khivar by the arm trying to pull him off her beloved. Amergin gasps out, “I didn’t do it.”
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
For the vows I used an example that Michael MacFarlane wrote in full and in part. The last speech done by the High Priest was taken in full and in part from Sydney Barbara Metrick.
(1) Wedding Vows by Michael MacFarlane pg 35
(2) I Do by Sydney Barbara Metrick pg 34
Heir to the Granolith (AU-WA,CC,Mature) AN 9/30/05 [WIP]
Moderators: Anniepoo98, ISLANDGIRL5, truelovepooh, Forum Moderators
Hier to the Granolith Ch 52 Nov 19
Read my stories:
Heir to the Granolith
Stranger In My Own Life
Via, Veritas, Vita
The way, the truth, the life
Heir to the Granolith
Stranger In My Own Life
Via, Veritas, Vita
The way, the truth, the life
Heir to the Granolith Ch 53 Dec 13
Many thanks to Kathy for her excellent beta work. Thanks to my writing group especially Ken and Julie for cracking the whip!
Adian
<center>Chapter 53</center>
<center>Star Destroyer Antarian Flame – Lower Port Aft Hull</center>
Red represents danger. A board of blinking red lights doesn’t prepare you for the hellish stench of chemicals, burnt flesh, and molten metal. Transfixed, Liz stares at the gaping hole in the aft hull. Here is where the killing blow landed.
Melted, twisted chunks of metal, almost recognizable as steel ribs just barely hold the ship together. Jagged shards from the hull are embedded in the remnants of the walls and floors. Almost everything not part of the actual ship structure had been sucked out into space. Clouds of debris caught within the shield hover outside the ship. Recovery crews work inside and out, claiming the icy remains of fallen comrades.
Michael and I were almost too late to save everyone else. We were so scared we wouldn’t have the power necessary to form the Rua Cah Canghal. It was unlike anything I’d ever experienced. Michael and I were one - balanced, aware of everything. For one brief moment I had a glimpse of the answer to the eternal question of why. Then the killing started destroying my sense of wonderment. We became a machine, coldly calculating each shot, stretching out every terawatt of power to inflict the maximum amount of damage. I felt every scratch, every prick, every bruise, every breath till the last. How does Michael survive the backlash? How am I to survive it again?
The Chief Engineer interrupts her reverie. “My Queen, we are ready for you to lower your shield. The containment field generators are on line.”
With a thought, the purple shield disappears. Liz watches a body float slowly by. The features are so distorted she can not tell if it was a man or woman in the work suit. Choked with tears she asks, “Survivors?”
Uncomfortable with his queen’s grieving, he turns away before answering in the negative.
Hours later a worried Chief Engineer calls Michael. “War Lord, the queen’s still down here.”
Michael asks, “Is she hurt?”
“I don’t know. The Throne Bound are leaving her be.”
“I’m coming.”
A few minutes later Michael arrives, stopping in the hatchway. In the dimness, his queen sits on the floor huddled against a partial wall. Electricity arcs from exposed wires dangling above her. Embers give off the occasional spark, briefly illuminating the darkness but offering no warmth against the coldness of space. Michael studies her physical appearance and through their bond her mental state. There are no outward wounds but the ones inside are bleeding freely. Opening their connection, he staggers under the onslaught of her raw emotions – sadness, loneliness, confusion, regret, and the overwhelming anger at the core of it all.
Her sightless gaze is fixed upon the workers outside welding new hull plates into place. In a voice scratchy from tears she asks, “What right do I have to ask this of them?”
Quietly he answers, “You bear the seal. You are the chosen of the Granolith.”
She ponders his answer a moment before asking, “Are we doing the right thing for the people of Antar?”
Without hesitation he answers, “Yes.” He can feel her irritation at his monosyllabic answer.
Turing to look into his face she questions, “If we are so right why did those fighters commit suicide to stop us?”
Michael snorts. “Khivar doesn’t inspire that kind of loyalty. More than likely he threatened the pilot’s families. Khivar rules through fear and reward. His supporters are those who would lose all for choosing him over Zan. When this is over, what’s left of the old aristocracy will want their lands, titles, and fortunes restored.”
Liz sighs in defeat. “So we win one war only to begin another. We must consider our other choices. We must face the possibility that we will lose this war. It is time to introduce my children to the true purpose of the Beta site."
Annoyed Michael says, "We had an agreement."
"I know. My children deserve to know they have other options. Consider what the Granolith has asked of me. I sacrificed my hopes and dreams. I’ve lost my husband not once but twice. I’m sacrificing one child for another. How many more sacrifices do I have to make? How much more will we all have to give up to satisfy the Granolith? I don’t ever want Rian to be asked to make the same type of sacrifices I have. I want him and your daughter to have a long and happy life and provide us with plenty of grandchildren to spoil. Please, Michael.”
Scowling Michael says, "You have to rest first."
Adian
<center>Chapter 53</center>
<center>Star Destroyer Antarian Flame – Lower Port Aft Hull</center>
Red represents danger. A board of blinking red lights doesn’t prepare you for the hellish stench of chemicals, burnt flesh, and molten metal. Transfixed, Liz stares at the gaping hole in the aft hull. Here is where the killing blow landed.
Melted, twisted chunks of metal, almost recognizable as steel ribs just barely hold the ship together. Jagged shards from the hull are embedded in the remnants of the walls and floors. Almost everything not part of the actual ship structure had been sucked out into space. Clouds of debris caught within the shield hover outside the ship. Recovery crews work inside and out, claiming the icy remains of fallen comrades.
Michael and I were almost too late to save everyone else. We were so scared we wouldn’t have the power necessary to form the Rua Cah Canghal. It was unlike anything I’d ever experienced. Michael and I were one - balanced, aware of everything. For one brief moment I had a glimpse of the answer to the eternal question of why. Then the killing started destroying my sense of wonderment. We became a machine, coldly calculating each shot, stretching out every terawatt of power to inflict the maximum amount of damage. I felt every scratch, every prick, every bruise, every breath till the last. How does Michael survive the backlash? How am I to survive it again?
The Chief Engineer interrupts her reverie. “My Queen, we are ready for you to lower your shield. The containment field generators are on line.”
With a thought, the purple shield disappears. Liz watches a body float slowly by. The features are so distorted she can not tell if it was a man or woman in the work suit. Choked with tears she asks, “Survivors?”
Uncomfortable with his queen’s grieving, he turns away before answering in the negative.
Hours later a worried Chief Engineer calls Michael. “War Lord, the queen’s still down here.”
Michael asks, “Is she hurt?”
“I don’t know. The Throne Bound are leaving her be.”
“I’m coming.”
A few minutes later Michael arrives, stopping in the hatchway. In the dimness, his queen sits on the floor huddled against a partial wall. Electricity arcs from exposed wires dangling above her. Embers give off the occasional spark, briefly illuminating the darkness but offering no warmth against the coldness of space. Michael studies her physical appearance and through their bond her mental state. There are no outward wounds but the ones inside are bleeding freely. Opening their connection, he staggers under the onslaught of her raw emotions – sadness, loneliness, confusion, regret, and the overwhelming anger at the core of it all.
Her sightless gaze is fixed upon the workers outside welding new hull plates into place. In a voice scratchy from tears she asks, “What right do I have to ask this of them?”
Quietly he answers, “You bear the seal. You are the chosen of the Granolith.”
She ponders his answer a moment before asking, “Are we doing the right thing for the people of Antar?”
Without hesitation he answers, “Yes.” He can feel her irritation at his monosyllabic answer.
Turing to look into his face she questions, “If we are so right why did those fighters commit suicide to stop us?”
Michael snorts. “Khivar doesn’t inspire that kind of loyalty. More than likely he threatened the pilot’s families. Khivar rules through fear and reward. His supporters are those who would lose all for choosing him over Zan. When this is over, what’s left of the old aristocracy will want their lands, titles, and fortunes restored.”
Liz sighs in defeat. “So we win one war only to begin another. We must consider our other choices. We must face the possibility that we will lose this war. It is time to introduce my children to the true purpose of the Beta site."
Annoyed Michael says, "We had an agreement."
"I know. My children deserve to know they have other options. Consider what the Granolith has asked of me. I sacrificed my hopes and dreams. I’ve lost my husband not once but twice. I’m sacrificing one child for another. How many more sacrifices do I have to make? How much more will we all have to give up to satisfy the Granolith? I don’t ever want Rian to be asked to make the same type of sacrifices I have. I want him and your daughter to have a long and happy life and provide us with plenty of grandchildren to spoil. Please, Michael.”
Scowling Michael says, "You have to rest first."
Read my stories:
Heir to the Granolith
Stranger In My Own Life
Via, Veritas, Vita
The way, the truth, the life
Heir to the Granolith
Stranger In My Own Life
Via, Veritas, Vita
The way, the truth, the life
<center>Star Destroyer Antarian Flame – Liz’s Quarters</center>
Liz telepaths, ~My children I need you to come to my room.~
Rian telepaths back. ~We've been trying to get in but Uncle Michael ordered the guards to bar everyone but him.~
Smiling, Liz says, "Michael, the kids are at the door."
Stiff with displeasure he walks over to the door jerking it open. He orders, "Let them in. We are not to be disturbed for any reason."
"As you command, Warlord," answers the guard.
Rian, Riona, and Rigan crowd around their mother seeing the tear tracks drying on her cheeks. The questions fly, "Why are you crying?"
Riona looks at Michael accusingly, “Are you responsible for this?"
Michael gives her a cold look but refuses to answer. Liz steps in pasting a smile on her face. "Riona, Michael let me vent. The stress has been getting to me but I'm much better now."
The siblings don't believe a word of it. Only something truly noteworthy would cause their mother to cry. Grabbing Riona and Rigan's hands Liz says, "I need for everyone to join hands. Michael and I have something to show you."
Her request only increases the sibling’s fears. In a flash, they appear on a pristine Earth like world. A stone city shimmers golden in the sunlight before them. The siblings turn around admiring the countryside breathing in truly fresh air with hints of lavender. It takes them a moment to realize that there are no sounds coming from the city or countryside. Riona is the first to venture a question. "Where are we?"
Liz answers, "You know it as the Beta site. Its true name is Dal'Shalla. In the tongue of its founders it means ‘haven’."
Rigan asks, "Where are all of the people?"
Liz answers, "Dal'Shalla was colonized by the Eturians. Two centuries ago, they disappeared from the planet for no apparent reason. We have found tons of records but none that explain why they felt the need to leave such a beautiful world."
Rian responds, "This may be the Beta site, but what is the true reason you have brought us here?"
Liz answers, "Michael and I have been preparing against the possibility we lose the war with Khivar."
Taking a step towards her mother Riona demands, "What have you seen?"
Michael steps in between Riona and his queen pushing Riona away. The siblings are stunned by Michael's actions, that he had felt the need to protect their mother from her own children. In a cold tone he answers for Liz, "Every good leader has a contingency plan. If our insurrection fails, we will need a new place to start over. If Khivar wins we cannot go back to Earth nor can we stay in the Whirlwind Galaxy."
Liz steps from behind Michael gently touching his arm. He calms but doesn't let her move from his side. Breaking the awkward silence, Liz continues with the explanation. "The Eturian technology is more advanced than Earth's but we are capable of using it. Alex has unknowingly adapted some of it for our use already. The planet comes equipped with its own planetary defense system, space dock, and terra launch pads. The dwellings and civic buildings in the cities are intact and habitable. The water and sewer systems are in working order. We have tested the soil and have adapted earth grains and vegetables to grow here."
Rigan asks, "If Dal'Shalla has been deserted for so long what will power everything?"
"Almost everything on Dal’Shalla is powered with solar power but there are wind and water backups. Come we are near the main control center." Liz walks over to a collection of boulders using her powers she moves a smaller rock exposing a control panel. She presses a series of buttons and an opening appears within the rocks. They follow Liz inside and she stops them before a raised circle surrounded by a railing. She moves to a nearby computer bank and keys in a few commands. A 3-D image appears above the raised circle of the universe. Three distinct glowing dots appear.
Liz explains, "The Blinking red dot is Earth. The yellow one is Antar and the blue one is Dal’Shalla."
Gazing at the distances between the points of light Riona mutters, "Could we be any farther from home?"
Michael answers, "That is the whole point of relocating to Dal’Shalla. It is on the opposite side of the universe from Antar and Earth."
Liz types in another series of commands and the image is replaced by one of Dal’Shalla. Intrigued by peaceful blue green world so reminiscent of home, Rigan asks, "May we explore a bit?"
She hands each of them a data pad. "These contain maps to the city." Liz and Michael watch the excited siblings leave the control room.
<center>Dal’Shalla at the Temple of Eternity</center>
Michael silently walks into the temple admiring the clean lines. The sandstone colored columns glow golden from the natural light that filters in. Michael marshals his arguments as he watches Liz standing with one hand protectively covering her abdomen. As always she gazes at one particular sarcophagus depicting a man and a woman in a reclining position. They face each other spending eternity gazing into one another’s eyes.
Liz looks at the elderly couple carved atop the sarcophagus. The love they feel for each other is sculpted into every line. They radiate a quiet joy; the joy of a long fulfilled life. Do you wonder as your Uncle Michael does about my interest in the dead? It’s their life, their palpable love for each other that fascinates me. This sarcophagus was carved millennia ago. I once thought your father and I would end up buried like this. I thought we had a love that transcended time, destiny, or distance. I don’t understand what went wrong. For so long I was certain of my reality. I knew that Max would be back. I held onto my memories of him, of our love, like a lifeline. Hope is a cruel thing for it’s not my Max who came back. The Max of my hopes and dreams is gone for good and now I’ve lost the Max that is here. My little one, you are my only remaining link of a once great love. Now I must lose you too. It’s so unfair! Why must I give you up? Why must I pay for the mistakes of others? Why must you be the sacrifice?
Hands clutching her abdomen she cries out, “I can’t do it! I can’t do what you ask of me!” Liz screams in despair. ”Do you hear me? I have done everything you have ever asked of me but I refuse to let you take my child. I can’t do this. Damn you, answer me! I can feel you. I know you are here. Answer me!”
The Granolith doesn’t answer but Michael does. “You don’t have to give your child up. I will stand with you no matter what you decide. You should know Antar is not worth it to me to see you suffer. You are my queen and my first loyalty is to you and you alone. We can pull out now and bring our people here. We have freed Cero and Larek’s worlds from Khivar’s yoke. They will never submit to him again. If your children knew what you contemplate sacrificing they would urge the same course upon you. Antar should not be bought with the blood of an innocent.”
Michael’s speech bolsters her determination but not quite in the way he had intended. “Blood of the innocent- the innocent - that is who's dying on Antar now. How can I live with myself if I place one life above millions? What of the innocent children on Antar? Are they no less deserving of life? Do I leave them to Khivar’s tender mercies? Do I become forsworn? The Granolith only agreed to transport everyone if the war with Khivar went badly.”
Michael tries to get her to see reason. “Then why are we here, Liz? Why tempt your kids with a future that isn’t possible? I thought the whole point was to find another way. The Granolith isn’t guaranteeing us a victory even if you go through with the sacrifice.”
“Michael, we knew from the beginning that we would have to risk it all to win against Khivar. I’ve risked my life, my husband, my children, my friends, and my crown.”
With cold rationality Michael says, “That’s just it, Liz, you’ve lost your husband. The Granolith is taking your child possibly at the expense of your own life. What does the rest of it matter if you’re dead?”
“What matters is freeing Antar. I am its rightful queen and I swore to pay any price.”
Michael snaps, “You swore, Liz, not your unborn child. Why must a baby pay?”
Liz yells, “Fine, then who would you choose?”
“Max.”
Liz scoffs, “He is a traitor! The Granolith will not accept a tainted sacrifice.”
Michael demands, “Why not?”
“It’s the meaning behind the sacrifice not the actual sacrifice that counts. My baby is pure, innocent, a life unlived. What greater sacrifice could it ask of me?”
Defeated Michael sighs. “You can reason away all you want but it still doesn’t make it right.”
Emotionally and physically exhausted Liz pleads with Michael. “I don’t want to argue with you anymore.”
“Then find another way. I’m not going to let you sacrifice your child or your sanity for Antar’s throne.”
Liz telepaths, ~My children I need you to come to my room.~
Rian telepaths back. ~We've been trying to get in but Uncle Michael ordered the guards to bar everyone but him.~
Smiling, Liz says, "Michael, the kids are at the door."
Stiff with displeasure he walks over to the door jerking it open. He orders, "Let them in. We are not to be disturbed for any reason."
"As you command, Warlord," answers the guard.
Rian, Riona, and Rigan crowd around their mother seeing the tear tracks drying on her cheeks. The questions fly, "Why are you crying?"
Riona looks at Michael accusingly, “Are you responsible for this?"
Michael gives her a cold look but refuses to answer. Liz steps in pasting a smile on her face. "Riona, Michael let me vent. The stress has been getting to me but I'm much better now."
The siblings don't believe a word of it. Only something truly noteworthy would cause their mother to cry. Grabbing Riona and Rigan's hands Liz says, "I need for everyone to join hands. Michael and I have something to show you."
Her request only increases the sibling’s fears. In a flash, they appear on a pristine Earth like world. A stone city shimmers golden in the sunlight before them. The siblings turn around admiring the countryside breathing in truly fresh air with hints of lavender. It takes them a moment to realize that there are no sounds coming from the city or countryside. Riona is the first to venture a question. "Where are we?"
Liz answers, "You know it as the Beta site. Its true name is Dal'Shalla. In the tongue of its founders it means ‘haven’."
Rigan asks, "Where are all of the people?"
Liz answers, "Dal'Shalla was colonized by the Eturians. Two centuries ago, they disappeared from the planet for no apparent reason. We have found tons of records but none that explain why they felt the need to leave such a beautiful world."
Rian responds, "This may be the Beta site, but what is the true reason you have brought us here?"
Liz answers, "Michael and I have been preparing against the possibility we lose the war with Khivar."
Taking a step towards her mother Riona demands, "What have you seen?"
Michael steps in between Riona and his queen pushing Riona away. The siblings are stunned by Michael's actions, that he had felt the need to protect their mother from her own children. In a cold tone he answers for Liz, "Every good leader has a contingency plan. If our insurrection fails, we will need a new place to start over. If Khivar wins we cannot go back to Earth nor can we stay in the Whirlwind Galaxy."
Liz steps from behind Michael gently touching his arm. He calms but doesn't let her move from his side. Breaking the awkward silence, Liz continues with the explanation. "The Eturian technology is more advanced than Earth's but we are capable of using it. Alex has unknowingly adapted some of it for our use already. The planet comes equipped with its own planetary defense system, space dock, and terra launch pads. The dwellings and civic buildings in the cities are intact and habitable. The water and sewer systems are in working order. We have tested the soil and have adapted earth grains and vegetables to grow here."
Rigan asks, "If Dal'Shalla has been deserted for so long what will power everything?"
"Almost everything on Dal’Shalla is powered with solar power but there are wind and water backups. Come we are near the main control center." Liz walks over to a collection of boulders using her powers she moves a smaller rock exposing a control panel. She presses a series of buttons and an opening appears within the rocks. They follow Liz inside and she stops them before a raised circle surrounded by a railing. She moves to a nearby computer bank and keys in a few commands. A 3-D image appears above the raised circle of the universe. Three distinct glowing dots appear.
Liz explains, "The Blinking red dot is Earth. The yellow one is Antar and the blue one is Dal’Shalla."
Gazing at the distances between the points of light Riona mutters, "Could we be any farther from home?"
Michael answers, "That is the whole point of relocating to Dal’Shalla. It is on the opposite side of the universe from Antar and Earth."
Liz types in another series of commands and the image is replaced by one of Dal’Shalla. Intrigued by peaceful blue green world so reminiscent of home, Rigan asks, "May we explore a bit?"
She hands each of them a data pad. "These contain maps to the city." Liz and Michael watch the excited siblings leave the control room.
<center>Dal’Shalla at the Temple of Eternity</center>
Michael silently walks into the temple admiring the clean lines. The sandstone colored columns glow golden from the natural light that filters in. Michael marshals his arguments as he watches Liz standing with one hand protectively covering her abdomen. As always she gazes at one particular sarcophagus depicting a man and a woman in a reclining position. They face each other spending eternity gazing into one another’s eyes.
Liz looks at the elderly couple carved atop the sarcophagus. The love they feel for each other is sculpted into every line. They radiate a quiet joy; the joy of a long fulfilled life. Do you wonder as your Uncle Michael does about my interest in the dead? It’s their life, their palpable love for each other that fascinates me. This sarcophagus was carved millennia ago. I once thought your father and I would end up buried like this. I thought we had a love that transcended time, destiny, or distance. I don’t understand what went wrong. For so long I was certain of my reality. I knew that Max would be back. I held onto my memories of him, of our love, like a lifeline. Hope is a cruel thing for it’s not my Max who came back. The Max of my hopes and dreams is gone for good and now I’ve lost the Max that is here. My little one, you are my only remaining link of a once great love. Now I must lose you too. It’s so unfair! Why must I give you up? Why must I pay for the mistakes of others? Why must you be the sacrifice?
Hands clutching her abdomen she cries out, “I can’t do it! I can’t do what you ask of me!” Liz screams in despair. ”Do you hear me? I have done everything you have ever asked of me but I refuse to let you take my child. I can’t do this. Damn you, answer me! I can feel you. I know you are here. Answer me!”
The Granolith doesn’t answer but Michael does. “You don’t have to give your child up. I will stand with you no matter what you decide. You should know Antar is not worth it to me to see you suffer. You are my queen and my first loyalty is to you and you alone. We can pull out now and bring our people here. We have freed Cero and Larek’s worlds from Khivar’s yoke. They will never submit to him again. If your children knew what you contemplate sacrificing they would urge the same course upon you. Antar should not be bought with the blood of an innocent.”
Michael’s speech bolsters her determination but not quite in the way he had intended. “Blood of the innocent- the innocent - that is who's dying on Antar now. How can I live with myself if I place one life above millions? What of the innocent children on Antar? Are they no less deserving of life? Do I leave them to Khivar’s tender mercies? Do I become forsworn? The Granolith only agreed to transport everyone if the war with Khivar went badly.”
Michael tries to get her to see reason. “Then why are we here, Liz? Why tempt your kids with a future that isn’t possible? I thought the whole point was to find another way. The Granolith isn’t guaranteeing us a victory even if you go through with the sacrifice.”
“Michael, we knew from the beginning that we would have to risk it all to win against Khivar. I’ve risked my life, my husband, my children, my friends, and my crown.”
With cold rationality Michael says, “That’s just it, Liz, you’ve lost your husband. The Granolith is taking your child possibly at the expense of your own life. What does the rest of it matter if you’re dead?”
“What matters is freeing Antar. I am its rightful queen and I swore to pay any price.”
Michael snaps, “You swore, Liz, not your unborn child. Why must a baby pay?”
Liz yells, “Fine, then who would you choose?”
“Max.”
Liz scoffs, “He is a traitor! The Granolith will not accept a tainted sacrifice.”
Michael demands, “Why not?”
“It’s the meaning behind the sacrifice not the actual sacrifice that counts. My baby is pure, innocent, a life unlived. What greater sacrifice could it ask of me?”
Defeated Michael sighs. “You can reason away all you want but it still doesn’t make it right.”
Emotionally and physically exhausted Liz pleads with Michael. “I don’t want to argue with you anymore.”
“Then find another way. I’m not going to let you sacrifice your child or your sanity for Antar’s throne.”
Read my stories:
Heir to the Granolith
Stranger In My Own Life
Via, Veritas, Vita
The way, the truth, the life
Heir to the Granolith
Stranger In My Own Life
Via, Veritas, Vita
The way, the truth, the life
Heir to the Granolith Ch 54-A Jan 8
I have to apologize this is a short part. I've been sick with bronchitis and laryngitis for the past few weeks. I've been to miserable to write and the drugs made me spacey.
As always many thanks to Kathy for her excellent beta work and to Julie and Ken for there none to gentle prodding
Chapter 54-A
Antar – Granolith Chamber
In an attempt to shake off Khivar’s grip, Amergin drops to his knees. As Khivar tightens his grip Amergin’s need for air becomes desperate. Amergin grabs Khivar’s wrists forcing him down out of Thalia’s grasp. Thalia raises both hands to her hair, pulling the jeweled daggers out that held up the bridal arrangement. Before the guards can react, she places the blades across her father’s neck. Her actions cause all activity on the dais to cease. Thalia leans over and whispers into her father’s ear. "If my husband dies so do you."
Enraged, Khivar spits out: "My guards will kill you before my body hits the floor."
Unfazed Thalia retorts, "Then long live Queen Elizabeth."
Angered by everyone’s inaction Queen Kathana orders, "Guards arrest her!" The guards do not even twitch. Kathana turns to the Guard Captain and screams, "Stop her! She’s threatening the life of your king."
Thalia chides, "I outrank a mere consort queen."
Flushing in embarrassment Kathana becomes aware that the vid cameras are still transmitting. Seething with rage she marches over to the equipment console and demands, "Cut those off."
Kathana then walks to the Chamberlain, gesturing to the guests she commands, "Get these people out of here."
Ignoring the commotion Kathana is causing, Thalia presses the blade tips deeper into her father’s flesh. A crimson drop slowly runs down his white, white neck. "Amergin’s about to lose consciousness. Time to choose – life or death?"
Red-faced Khivar rages, "Damn you, Thalia!"
As Amergin falls to the floor gasping for breath, Thalia removes one blade from her father’s throat. She points the dagger at the High Priest and gestures to Amergin. "Heal him."
Nervous, the High Priest stammers, "Y-yes, Your Highness."
Khivar tries to move out of her grasp but she quickly moves the dagger back into place tightening her hold on his neck. In silence, they watch the High Priest work on Amergin. The Chamberlain attempts to usher the guests out. But the audience remains spellbound, trapped by the violence lingering in the air.
As the bruises disappear, Amergin begins to breathe easier. He looks to Thalia whispering her name. Relieved Thalia asks, "Your Reverence, would you please help my husband up?"
The High Priest nods in acquiesce. As Amergin struggles to stand Thalia says, "Amergin, I need for you to leave. Father and I have a few things to discuss."
Thankful for an excuse to leave, the High Priest almost drags Amergin off the dais. Enraged Queen Kathana lifts her skirts pulling her own dagger out. She rushes Amergin but is blocked by the Guard Captain. She wails, "You’ll pay for this insolence!"
The Guard Captain relieves Kathana of her weapon. Two guards escort Amergin out of the chamber. Thalia releases her father. He stands and spins to face her. Khivar gives her an appraising look. "You surprise me, Thalia. My blood does run through your veins."
As always many thanks to Kathy for her excellent beta work and to Julie and Ken for there none to gentle prodding
Chapter 54-A
Antar – Granolith Chamber
In an attempt to shake off Khivar’s grip, Amergin drops to his knees. As Khivar tightens his grip Amergin’s need for air becomes desperate. Amergin grabs Khivar’s wrists forcing him down out of Thalia’s grasp. Thalia raises both hands to her hair, pulling the jeweled daggers out that held up the bridal arrangement. Before the guards can react, she places the blades across her father’s neck. Her actions cause all activity on the dais to cease. Thalia leans over and whispers into her father’s ear. "If my husband dies so do you."
Enraged, Khivar spits out: "My guards will kill you before my body hits the floor."
Unfazed Thalia retorts, "Then long live Queen Elizabeth."
Angered by everyone’s inaction Queen Kathana orders, "Guards arrest her!" The guards do not even twitch. Kathana turns to the Guard Captain and screams, "Stop her! She’s threatening the life of your king."
Thalia chides, "I outrank a mere consort queen."
Flushing in embarrassment Kathana becomes aware that the vid cameras are still transmitting. Seething with rage she marches over to the equipment console and demands, "Cut those off."
Kathana then walks to the Chamberlain, gesturing to the guests she commands, "Get these people out of here."
Ignoring the commotion Kathana is causing, Thalia presses the blade tips deeper into her father’s flesh. A crimson drop slowly runs down his white, white neck. "Amergin’s about to lose consciousness. Time to choose – life or death?"
Red-faced Khivar rages, "Damn you, Thalia!"
As Amergin falls to the floor gasping for breath, Thalia removes one blade from her father’s throat. She points the dagger at the High Priest and gestures to Amergin. "Heal him."
Nervous, the High Priest stammers, "Y-yes, Your Highness."
Khivar tries to move out of her grasp but she quickly moves the dagger back into place tightening her hold on his neck. In silence, they watch the High Priest work on Amergin. The Chamberlain attempts to usher the guests out. But the audience remains spellbound, trapped by the violence lingering in the air.
As the bruises disappear, Amergin begins to breathe easier. He looks to Thalia whispering her name. Relieved Thalia asks, "Your Reverence, would you please help my husband up?"
The High Priest nods in acquiesce. As Amergin struggles to stand Thalia says, "Amergin, I need for you to leave. Father and I have a few things to discuss."
Thankful for an excuse to leave, the High Priest almost drags Amergin off the dais. Enraged Queen Kathana lifts her skirts pulling her own dagger out. She rushes Amergin but is blocked by the Guard Captain. She wails, "You’ll pay for this insolence!"
The Guard Captain relieves Kathana of her weapon. Two guards escort Amergin out of the chamber. Thalia releases her father. He stands and spins to face her. Khivar gives her an appraising look. "You surprise me, Thalia. My blood does run through your veins."
Read my stories:
Heir to the Granolith
Stranger In My Own Life
Via, Veritas, Vita
The way, the truth, the life
Heir to the Granolith
Stranger In My Own Life
Via, Veritas, Vita
The way, the truth, the life
Heir to the Granolith Ch 54-B 4 Mar 05
I didn't mean to be away this long but I got involved with another creative endeavor and it just sucked up so much of my time. We have formed a film making group in my community. We shot our first short film in Feb and edited it. The group now has 5 short films under it's belt. I've been involved in finding funding for us to do a public screening of our work so far. The worst of it is over so I should be updating regularly again.
Enjoy!
Adian
Chapter 54-B
(Directly continuing from Ch 54-A)
Disgusted by his behavior Thalia snaps, “Once again you let your temper overrule your sense. This marriage was supposed to appease the old guard and help sway the undecided to our side. I had to stop you from killing our strongest bargaining chip.”
Khivar sighs, “I know daughter.” Wearily he sinks onto his bejeweled throne gazing at the heraldic banners decorating the walls. Memories overwhelm him as he looks upon the room home to his greatest triumphs and tragedies. Here he wrested the crown from Zan losing Vilondra in the same instant.
Thalia kneels at her father’s feet placing her hands over his. “Father, I need for you to accept that the Granolith will never be yours.”
Staring at the empty space where the Granolith was supposed to reside Khivar replies, “I’d say the Granolith has left no doubt of its opinion.”
Gently she squeezes her father’s hands bringing his attention back to her. Looking him in the eye Thalia earnestly states, “You don’t need it to rule; you never have.”
Khivar splutters, “But the people…”
Thalia interrupts driving her point home. “If the Granolith is so all powerful then why did it let you overthrow Zan? Your obsession with him and the Granolith needs to end here and now. You control the planet. We need to focus on quashing this little rebellion.”
Khivar leans forward gently cupping the side of her face and asks, ”When did you get so wise?”
Eyes tear bright she replies, “When I also realized your blood runs through my veins.”
Dal’Shalla – Beta Site
Two silver haired figures face each other in the lotus position. Breathing in unison, the older begins, “Now that your shields are in place we are going to work on control. I want you to picture a doorway. Having the door open or closed should represent whether or not you are touching your power. Today you will practice entering and leaving a vision at will.”
The Priestess Isra instructs, “Close your eyes. Picture the door closed. Fix the image firmly in your mind and describe it.”
Siban answers, “The door is a stout oak, a hardwood from Earth, with a cherry red stain. It is held in place by hinges of the blackest iron.”
Isra permits herself a small smile before asking, “How do you open the door?”
An unusual determination fills Siban’s voice as she answers, “By my will alone.”
Isra says, “When you are ready open the door. Open yourself to your power.”
“I have it.”
Isra orders “Walk into the vision. Use your senses. Describe what you see, hear, and smell.”
Siban answers in a quavering voice, “I see a game board red and gold versus green and silver. Green falls first followed by silver then gold leaving the field to red.”
Isra asks, “Can you sense anything else in your vision?”
Siban answers, “The game board sits upon a bolt of purple cloth – imperial purple.”
Isra orders “Walk back through the entranceway and close the door.”
A minute passes with no response. Isra questions, “Siban?”
Receiving no answer Isra lowers her mental shields and gently touches Siban’s hand. She is sucked into a maelstrom of images and emotions. Slamming her shields into place Isra breaks physical contact with the girl.
Siban’s eyes snap open completely white. A disembodied voice speaks, “Keeper’s child it is time to choose…the Soul Drinker comes…Justice shall take off her blind…all debts and oaths are due…sisters become one, the final reckoning has begun…”
Siban’s body begins convulsing. The Granolith has overpowered her. She doesn’t have the strength to leave the vision. Isra screams for the guards as she grabs hold of Siban’s flailing head.
The entering guard quickly assesses the situation and calls for medical help. Another guard helps Isra hold Siban’s thrashing body in place.
Siban’s twin brothers Declan and Desmond are the first to arrive. Dec rushes to his sister while Desmond goes to the comm. unit. “This is Prince Desmond; I need a secure channel opened to the Queen immediately.”
A few minutes later word comes back that the Queen, her children, and the War Lord are missing.
Isra looks at Desmond in desperation. “Des, I can’t reach her.”
Desmond shares a look with his twin before answering. “If Dec and I feed you energy will it amplify your powers enough to reach Aunt Liz or Rigan?”
“Let’s try it.” A medic takes Isra’s place with Siban. She resumes the lotus position on the floor. Declan and Desmond sit across from her.
Isra instructs them, “First, we all need to hold hands, then I need for you to let the energy build between you until it reaches its peak. Once I lower my shields release the power to me.”
Soon Desmond and Declan are flushed and sweating from the strain of keeping the energy contained. In agony Desmond yells, “Now Isra! Now!”
Isra lowers her shields mentally staggering from the onslaught. The power is intoxicating igniting her very blood on fire. She mentally calls out ~Queen Elizabeth! It’s Isra. Siban needs you~
~I come. ~ responds Liz.
Liz’s mental reply hit’s Isra’s overloaded mind like a sledgehammer. Before she passes out she whispers, “The Queen comes.”
Enjoy!
Adian
Chapter 54-B
(Directly continuing from Ch 54-A)
Disgusted by his behavior Thalia snaps, “Once again you let your temper overrule your sense. This marriage was supposed to appease the old guard and help sway the undecided to our side. I had to stop you from killing our strongest bargaining chip.”
Khivar sighs, “I know daughter.” Wearily he sinks onto his bejeweled throne gazing at the heraldic banners decorating the walls. Memories overwhelm him as he looks upon the room home to his greatest triumphs and tragedies. Here he wrested the crown from Zan losing Vilondra in the same instant.
Thalia kneels at her father’s feet placing her hands over his. “Father, I need for you to accept that the Granolith will never be yours.”
Staring at the empty space where the Granolith was supposed to reside Khivar replies, “I’d say the Granolith has left no doubt of its opinion.”
Gently she squeezes her father’s hands bringing his attention back to her. Looking him in the eye Thalia earnestly states, “You don’t need it to rule; you never have.”
Khivar splutters, “But the people…”
Thalia interrupts driving her point home. “If the Granolith is so all powerful then why did it let you overthrow Zan? Your obsession with him and the Granolith needs to end here and now. You control the planet. We need to focus on quashing this little rebellion.”
Khivar leans forward gently cupping the side of her face and asks, ”When did you get so wise?”
Eyes tear bright she replies, “When I also realized your blood runs through my veins.”
Dal’Shalla – Beta Site
Two silver haired figures face each other in the lotus position. Breathing in unison, the older begins, “Now that your shields are in place we are going to work on control. I want you to picture a doorway. Having the door open or closed should represent whether or not you are touching your power. Today you will practice entering and leaving a vision at will.”
The Priestess Isra instructs, “Close your eyes. Picture the door closed. Fix the image firmly in your mind and describe it.”
Siban answers, “The door is a stout oak, a hardwood from Earth, with a cherry red stain. It is held in place by hinges of the blackest iron.”
Isra permits herself a small smile before asking, “How do you open the door?”
An unusual determination fills Siban’s voice as she answers, “By my will alone.”
Isra says, “When you are ready open the door. Open yourself to your power.”
“I have it.”
Isra orders “Walk into the vision. Use your senses. Describe what you see, hear, and smell.”
Siban answers in a quavering voice, “I see a game board red and gold versus green and silver. Green falls first followed by silver then gold leaving the field to red.”
Isra asks, “Can you sense anything else in your vision?”
Siban answers, “The game board sits upon a bolt of purple cloth – imperial purple.”
Isra orders “Walk back through the entranceway and close the door.”
A minute passes with no response. Isra questions, “Siban?”
Receiving no answer Isra lowers her mental shields and gently touches Siban’s hand. She is sucked into a maelstrom of images and emotions. Slamming her shields into place Isra breaks physical contact with the girl.
Siban’s eyes snap open completely white. A disembodied voice speaks, “Keeper’s child it is time to choose…the Soul Drinker comes…Justice shall take off her blind…all debts and oaths are due…sisters become one, the final reckoning has begun…”
Siban’s body begins convulsing. The Granolith has overpowered her. She doesn’t have the strength to leave the vision. Isra screams for the guards as she grabs hold of Siban’s flailing head.
The entering guard quickly assesses the situation and calls for medical help. Another guard helps Isra hold Siban’s thrashing body in place.
Siban’s twin brothers Declan and Desmond are the first to arrive. Dec rushes to his sister while Desmond goes to the comm. unit. “This is Prince Desmond; I need a secure channel opened to the Queen immediately.”
A few minutes later word comes back that the Queen, her children, and the War Lord are missing.
Isra looks at Desmond in desperation. “Des, I can’t reach her.”
Desmond shares a look with his twin before answering. “If Dec and I feed you energy will it amplify your powers enough to reach Aunt Liz or Rigan?”
“Let’s try it.” A medic takes Isra’s place with Siban. She resumes the lotus position on the floor. Declan and Desmond sit across from her.
Isra instructs them, “First, we all need to hold hands, then I need for you to let the energy build between you until it reaches its peak. Once I lower my shields release the power to me.”
Soon Desmond and Declan are flushed and sweating from the strain of keeping the energy contained. In agony Desmond yells, “Now Isra! Now!”
Isra lowers her shields mentally staggering from the onslaught. The power is intoxicating igniting her very blood on fire. She mentally calls out ~Queen Elizabeth! It’s Isra. Siban needs you~
~I come. ~ responds Liz.
Liz’s mental reply hit’s Isra’s overloaded mind like a sledgehammer. Before she passes out she whispers, “The Queen comes.”
Read my stories:
Heir to the Granolith
Stranger In My Own Life
Via, Veritas, Vita
The way, the truth, the life
Heir to the Granolith
Stranger In My Own Life
Via, Veritas, Vita
The way, the truth, the life
Hurricane Rita
I finally got access to a computer for a short while and thought I'd drop a note. Physically we're fine we still don't about our house! These are photos from the area where I live. We've been told it'll be another 2 to 4 weeks before we can go home.
http://forums.lakecharles.com/photos/
Be SAFE!!!
Adian
http://forums.lakecharles.com/photos/
Be SAFE!!!
Adian
Read my stories:
Heir to the Granolith
Stranger In My Own Life
Via, Veritas, Vita
The way, the truth, the life
Heir to the Granolith
Stranger In My Own Life
Via, Veritas, Vita
The way, the truth, the life